Donors among us: Financial assistance for students in need

This story is the first in a series that profiles Lewis & Clark community members who volunteer their time or donate dollars to create a long-term positive impact.

Each of us is where we are today because someone in our community, at some point, reached out to help.

I value my experience at Lewis & Clark and believe it was there that I developed the ability to think critically and the desire to be an engaged member of society. I would hate for a deserving student to miss out on such an experience.Heidi Hu B.S. ’85Scholarship Donor

Currently in the College of Arts and Sciences, more than 70 percent of students receive some form of financial assistance. And the number of students who need such assistance is growing.

Scholarships are an important way for Lewis & Clark to meet more of the demonstrated financial need of our students and ensure a talented and diverse student body. They are one of the most powerful and direct ways to make a positive and lasting impact on a student’s education.

Each spring, Lewis & Clark hosts a Scholarship Recognition Luncheon at which donors and scholarship recipients can interact with each other by sharing news, stories, and a meal. Daniel Blasher ’13 and Heidi Hu B.S. ’85 were two of this year’s attendees.

Daniel Blasher ’13, Psychology Major

Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Eugene, Oregon, as the fourth son of a unique biracial couple from the Bay Area. During my early childhood, I began developing my three main hobbies of running, music, and dream analysis. I’ve completed my psychology major and will finish my music minor in time for graduation. I’ve been lucky enough to weave my hobbies into my studies while finding new ways of challenging myself throughout my time at Lewis & Clark.

What are your plans after Lewis & Clark?

This summer, I will be part of a collaborative research team led by Liz Stanhope, associate professor of mathematical sciences. We’ll be studying computational models of hair bundles in the inner ear. Then in August, my girlfriend and I will be moving to Boston, where I will be working as a tutor/mentor for high school students in the City on a Hill Corps. The position lasts one year, but I may choose to renew the contract. I hope to build my interpersonal skills and gain experiences that make me a competitive candidate for a doctoral program in clinical psychology.

How has scholarship support helped you?

Heidi Hu and Daniel Hsieh’s scholarship has provided me with an unbelievable amount of freedom during my college career. I’ve been able to work far fewer hours to support myself. Without that spare time, I wouldn’t have been able to pursue my music minor, accept the monumental role of resident advisor for three semesters, participate in track and field, or take challenging elective courses like Sociology of Religion in Hip Hop, Social Construction of Madness, and Neuroanatomy. Their scholarship will keep on giving in the coming years of my life, and I hope I can fully perpetuate their kindness by positively impacting the world.

Heidi Hu B.S. ’85

Tell us about your time at Lewis & Clark.

I had many interests while at Lewis & Clark. I think I took a class in almost every discipline! I particularly liked taking piano lessons and classes in economics and international relations, and hiking in the greater Portland area.

Some of my fondest memories are of hanging out with fellow students in the dorms and on the beautiful campus. It was fascinating to meet people from so many different backgrounds. Many of my best friendships are from my Lewis & Clark days.

What inspired you and your husband, Daniel Hsieh, to establish a scholarship at Lewis & Clark?

We are both products of a liberal arts education and had wonderful experiences. I value my experience at Lewis & Clark and believe it was there that I developed the ability to think critically and the desire to be an engaged member of society. I would hate for a deserving student to miss out on such an experience.

What advice would you give to those thinking about a scholarship gift?

Lewis & Clark’s development staff was very helpful in developing the language for the scholarship, and helped us strike a balance between achieving our goals and having a workable scholarship.